Named scholarships

When it comes to earning a college degree, the greatest obstacle can be funding.

For this reason, The University of Akron is pleased for the opportunity each year to assist talented, deserving students achieve their dreams, thanks to more than 1,300 named scholarships established through the kindness and generosity of thousands of UA alumni and friends, corporations, and foundations.

Scholarships truly are the best way to ensure that today’s students persist to graduation. Scholarships allow students to enroll full time and remain focused on their studies; they also reduce drop-out rates, decrease the stress of student loans, and shorten the road to graduation.

The need for scholarships grows each year, however, as students continue to face an increased financial burden in pursuit of a college degree. In fact, 94 percent of today’s baccalaureate students borrow to pay for college – versus just 45 percent in 1993. Across the country, the average college-related debt for borrowers in the class of 2016 was $37,172; for Ohio students, that figure was $30,239.

If you are interested in making a significant contribution to student success, please consider a gift to the MAKING A DIFFERENCE AND MOVING FORWARD scholarship campaign, which is the University's most important initiative. You may also establish a named scholarship at The University of Akron, which can be created to honor a living person, in memory of a loved one, or to contribute to the growth of an area of study.

To learn more, please contact the Department of Development at 330-972-7238.

How do I apply for a scholarship?

This is not the page to apply for scholarships.

Students who want to apply for scholarships should visit the scholarship page on the Financial Aid site.

The Department of Development does not accept applications for or distribute scholarships. Scholarships are distributed through the University’s Office of Student Financial Aid.

Search for a Named Scholarship

The Patrick S. and Nancy Steinkerchner Roberts Endowed Business Scholarship was established in 1998 as a demonstration of Patrick and Nancy Roberts' appreciation for their alma mater and the fine education they received. Pat '88, '96 and Nancy '84, '86, '92 have had a long, involved history with The University of Akron. Pat received his BSBA in marketing in 1988 and his master's in public administration in 1996. He was active in The Accounting Association, Pi Sigma Epsilon, and Student Toastmasters. Pat joined the University's Department of Development in 1993 and is currently the executive director of the Alumni Association. Nancy has received three degrees from The University of Akron with a BSIM in 1984, MBA (Marketing) in 1986, and a J.D. in 1992. Nancy was involved in Omicron Delta Kappa, Delta Sigma Pi, Rho Lambda, women's basketball, and senior class board. She has remained active with Delta Gamma and is a member of The National Alumni Association Board of Directors. Nancy is legal counsel and director of information systems for her family-owned business, American Pro-Mold. This endowed scholarship provides an annual award renewable to a worthy business student enrolled at The University of Akron. First preference will be given to students demonstrating financial need with a GPA of at least 2.5. The scholarship recipient must be actively involved in student organizations and demonstrate leadership skills. Selection will be made by the College of Business in conjunction with Pat and Nancy Roberts.